1
Q
What economic changes has Detroit experienced?
A
- Industrial boom 1900-1930
- In 2014 Detroit’s bankruptcy plan was approved, wiping out $7 billion of debt
- Companies such as Quicken Loans moved HQ to downtown, which transformed central areas
- Gradually moving beyond its historical dependence on car manufacturing through growth of tech startups supported by venture funds
eg. StockX backed by Detroit Venture Partners - Detroit Labs runs an apprenticeship program to train residents with no prior experience
- Launch of QLine streetcar to help transportation and attract investment
2
Q
What is broken windows theory?
A
The theory that environmental deterioration (eg. vandalism) can quickly accelerate in locations where there are low levels of active citizenship
3
Q
Describe how Detroit’s demographic has changed and the impacts
A
- Population has fallen from 1.85 million during industrial boom to around 650,000 -> smaller tax base -> declining services -> more leave
- Detroit’s white population fell by over 1 million during deindustrialisation from 1950-1980 -> ‘white flight’
- 90% manufacturing jobs lost from 1947-2010
- Population has grown consecutively for 2 years after over 60 years of decline
4
Q
Who is the billionaire who has transformed Detroit?
A
Dan Gilbert:
- Born in Detroit
- Moved Quicken Loans HQ to downtown Detroit
- Helped pay for the creation of the QLine Streetcar
- Has invested billions into Detroit
5
Q
Describe the Lee Plaza restoration
A
- Brings 117 units of affordable senior housing
- Units are restricted to those earning 60% or below the area’s median income
- Located in the area of Detroit with the lowest median income
- Is also a significant historical symbol for Detroit which use to reflect Detroit’s prosperity and more recently demonstrated urban decay
6
Q
Describe the Michigan Central Station redevelopment by Ford
A
- Almost $1 billion invested to create a mobility innovation hub
- Estimated $2.5 billion worth of long-term economic activity created
- Social and cultural significance -> symbol of Detroit’s comeback, pride
- Place as a palimpsest
7
Q
Describe the Henry Ford Hospital redevelopment
A
- $2.2 billion investment in the hospital
- Will provide more advance care locally as well as attracting jobs
- May be economic multiplier effects
8
Q
What percentage of Detroit lives below the poverty line?
A
35%
